MemorialMonumentWWII Site
Iron Mike Monument, Sainte-Mère-Église
Sainte-Mère-Église›France
4.8(638 reviews)
20min
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About Iron Mike Monument
5 km west of Sainte-Mère-Église. Unveiled in 1997, the statue is a replica of the original 1961 sculpture at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, modeled on Sergeant Major James Runyon. The monument commemorates the Battle of La Fière Bridge (June 6-9, 1944), where the 82nd Airborne Division fought to control the strategic crossing over the Merderet River.
The name "Iron Mike" comes from American slang for exceptionally tough and brave men. It was originally a nautical term for a gyrocompass that keeps a ship on an unwavering course, symbolizing the paratroopers' steadfast determination. The name also references Saint Michael, patron saint of Airborne forces.
Travel Plans in Sainte-Mère-Église
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Day Routes
4h 28min
D-Day Heritage Day in Sainte-Mère-Église
Sainte-Mère-Église
HistoricalFirst-time VisitorCulturaland 3 more
Relaxed
Car
Public Transit
€16.50
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